The Session Musician’s 50-Year Career Blueprint with Johnny Thirkell
Photo by David Harrison
Most musicians dream of stability. Johnny Thirkell built a 50-year career with David Bowie, Paul McCartney, George Michael, and The Who – starting from colliery bands and working men’s clubs in the North East.
This isn’t about talent. It’s about the business systems that keep session musicians working for decades while others struggle after a few years.
Johnny shares the relationship-building frameworks that get you in the room with major artists, the professional standards that ensure callbacks, and the economic strategies that survive massive industry changes – from the 1970s studio system to today’s remote recording reality.
Whether you’re building a session career or any sustainable music business, the principles are the same: systematic relationship management, clear professional standards, and strategic adaptation to industry shifts.
Topics covered:
- How session musicians actually get hired by major artists
- The relationship maintenance framework that creates repeat clients over decades
- Pricing strategies for session work
- Professional studio standards that ensure callbacks
- Adapting to 50 years of technology and industry changes
Support the Unstarving Musician
The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers. Learn how you can offer your support by visiting our Crowd Sponsor page at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor
This episode of the was sponsored by Podcast Startup
Ready to launch your podcast or take it to the next level? Podcast Startup gives you the frameworks, systems, and insider knowledge to build a show that actually grows your audience and serves your goals.
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to improve your existing podcast, you’ll get actionable strategies on equipment selection, content planning, audience building, and sustainable production workflows—without the overwhelm.
Learn more at UnstarvingMusician.com/PodcastStartup. Join podcasters who are building shows that last.
This episode of the was sponsored by Liner Notes Insider.
Get exclusive weekly insights drawn from in-depth research and conversations with hundreds of thriving musicians and industry pros. I dig deep to uncover proven strategies for building a sustainable music career, from marketing and touring to sync licensing and beyond.
- As an Insider, you’ll receive:
- Deep-dive analysis and actionable strategies from extensive industry research
- Expert interview breakdowns with step-by-step implementation guides
- Access to my curated resource library and tools
- Monthly Q&A sessions for personalized guidance
- Priority access to special events and workshops
- First look at new resources and research findings
Try Liner Notes Free
Start with our free edition featuring selected insights and latest episodes. Upgrade anytime to unlock full Insider access.
Mentions and Related Episodes
"Blown It!!: A Session Musician's Life, Behind the Scenes"
Chris Raspante on Serendipity, Networking, Reputation, Nashville (Ep 002)
Making Music with an Open Heart and Mind – Jon Christopher Davis (Ep 72)
Why Musicians Shouldn't Have a Phone on Stage—Johnny Burgin (Ep 31)
Resources
The Unstarving Musician's Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo
Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money, and support the UM in the process.
Visit our Resources page for more special offers.
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support!